This article discusses the causes of hip pain during pregnancy and home remedy options.

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What Causes Hip Pain During Pregnancy?

The pain felt in the hip during the third trimester can feel dull or sharp.

Pregnant woman on sofa with back pain

Jose Araujo / Getty Images

It can also gradually develop over time or come on suddenly.

This is a sharp pain in the hips.

This extra load can stress the pelvic region, leading to hip pain.

Renita White, MD

The cause of TOP is not well understood.

It can occur during the third trimester of pregnancy.

The pain develops because bone loss in the upper thigh can lead to issues with the hip joint.

Is Transient Osteoporosis Permanent?

While bone loss may seem severe, transient osteoporosis during pregnancy typically resolves itself after the baby is born.

Hip pain during pregnancy can develop due to sciatica because of physical changes in the body.

That added pressure causes the pain.

How Common Is Sciatic Nerve Pain in Pregnancy?

According to research studies, roughly 1% of pregnant people will experience pain due to sciatic nerve pressure.

Side sleeping, in particular, puts more pressure on the hip joints and can lead to pain.

The added pressure on the hips from slouching too far forward can drive hip pain during pregnancy.

These types of exercises or stretches focus on the core and hips.

Yoga and Pilates are low-impact options that help relieve hip pain during pregnancy.

Ask your healthcare provider before proceeding with any new exercise programs when in doubt.

It is a wearable equipment that wraps around the lower abdomen.

The best one to reach for isTylenol (acetaminophen).

NSAIDs should especially be avoided during the third trimester.

However, until they do, Aspirin should be avoided entirely.

Tylenolis a non-opioid pain reliever that is generally safe to use during pregnancy.

They include:

Summary

Hip pain during pregnancy is common, especially during the third trimester.

The best nondrug approaches include massage therapy, yoga and Pilates, and posture awareness.

Your healthcare provider may recommend a pain reliever if the pain is too severe.

Oswald C, Higgins CC, Assimakopoulos D.Optimizing pain relief during pregnancy using manual therapy.Can Fam Physician.

2013;59(8):841-842.

Arthritis Foundation.Heat therapy helps relax stiff joints.

Nemours Childrens Health.Pregnancy precautions: FAQs.